Linz mayor calls for more opportunities to visit homes

LINZ. As of February 22nd, according to the city of Linz, there is not a single positive Corona case in the Linz retirement and nursing homes. Eight out of ten home residents are also vaccinated. Mayor Klaus Luger is therefore in favor of expanded opportunities to visit the homes.

“We currently have zero people who have tested positive in our houses, thanks in part to the vaccinations that have been carried out across the board. Nevertheless, the ministry is maintaining its excessive restrictions on visits, which represent an enormous psychological burden for the residents, ”Luger criticizes. His suggestion: At least one visit per day should be possible for each resident. Of course, protective measures such as negative test results are to be observed.

“End unequal treatment”

In addition, Luger locates gross inequality. While those cared for at home are legally allowed to receive daily visits, this contact is drastically restricted by the decree of the Minister of Health in senior centers. “With all the mindfulness, it is more and more about fighting loneliness, which also has a negative impact on health,” says Luger. “If children are allowed to go to schools, the trade is open and much more – then grandchildren should also be able to visit their grandparents in nursing homes, where eight out of ten are already vaccinated and thus adequately protected,” emphasizes the Mayor of Linz.

State of Upper Austria sends proposals to the federal government

In the meantime, the state of Upper Austria has commissioned a group of experts to develop relaxation proposals. These are available and will be sent to the Ministry of Health. It is in favor of relief for corona-free homes, vaccinated residents and vaccinated employees. All details under www.tips.at/n/527740

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